Applying for Rs 23 lakh UAE Golden Visa? Here's how much 1 BHK flat will cost you in Dubai
However, the UAE government has now stepped in and cleared the confusion.
No such 'lifetime visa' exists, says UAE government
On July 8, 2025, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) officially denied the launch of any flat-fee lifetime Golden Visa. The authority clearly stated that all rules related to the Golden Visa are based on UAE laws and existing ministerial decisions. So far, there has been no new scheme introduced that allows applicants to get a Golden Visa just by paying Rs 23 lakh.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa, first launched in 2019, is a long-term residency programme that allows foreigners to live, work and study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. This visa is usually valid for 5 or 10 years and is renewable, as long as the individual continues to meet the eligibility criteria.
Golden Visa holders can also sponsor their family members and domestic workers, making it an attractive option for professionals, investors and entrepreneurs.
Who is eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is available to several categories of individuals, such as:
Real estate investors with property worth at least AED 2 million
Entrepreneurs
Professionals, including doctors, engineers, teachers, and scientists
Outstanding students and talented artists
Each category has its own set of requirements related to salary, education, or investment. All official rules are listed on the ICP and GDRFA websites.
The Rs 23 lakh claim: What's the truth?
The Rs 23 lakh figure gained attention after a consultancy firm, Rayad Group, issued a press release stating that Indian and Bangladeshi applicants could get nominated for a Golden Visa without investing in real estate or business. They also claimed that VFS Global was their processing partner. However, VFS Global has denied any involvement in such a scheme.
Some consultancies are misleadingly marketing this as a fast-track, fixed-fee option, especially targeting Indian professionals and business owners.
But as per Financial Express and Economic Times, this is not a pay-and-get model. Experts say that the AED 100,000 (Rs 23 lakh) may only be required after nomination and only covers processing and administrative charges. Even then, selection is not guaranteed, and the process involves strict evaluation.
Nomination route explained
Nomination-based Golden Visa applications have been around for a while. What's changed is their visibility due to more structured eligibility criteria like income levels, professional awards, or digital contributions.
To get this visa through nomination, an applicant must first be recognised by a UAE government or semi-government entity. The application then goes through several stages including background checks, assessment of professional achievements, and evaluation of potential economic contributions. Approval is not automatic, even if you're willing to pay.
Planning to settle in Dubai? Here's the cost of a 1 BHK flat
If you're applying for a UAE Golden Visa and considering buying a flat in Dubai, it's important to understand the cost of flat in Dubai.
As per recent media reports, the price of a 1 BHK flat in Dubai can range between Rs 80 lakh to Rs 1 crore, as reported in India.com. This applies mostly to affordable or entry-level housing segments in standard locations.
Price of flats in mid-range and premium Dubai areas
If you're looking to live in mid-range areas like Dubai Science Park or Dubailand, be prepared to spend around Rs 1.8 crore to Rs 2.3 crore for a spacious and modern apartment.
For luxury zones such as Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, prices start at around Rs 2 crore and can go up to Rs 5 crore, depending on amenities, views, and floor plans, as per India.com.
Want to live near Burj Khalifa? Here's the price
If your dream is to live close to Burj Khalifa, the iconic symbol of Dubai, then you'll need to spend a lot more. A 1 BHK flat near Burj Khalifa can cost around Rs 3.73 crore. This area is known for its luxury living, top-tier amenities, and high-end property rates.
Do your flatwork before applying
To sum up, while the UAE Golden Visa is a great option for long-term residency in Dubai, there is no official scheme offering it as a one-time Rs 23 lakh purchase. Always check the ICP and GDRFA websites for official updates and avoid falling for fake promises made by consultancies.
If you're serious about settling in Dubai and buying a flat, be ready for property prices that vary widely based on location and amenities. And remember, even with nomination, the Golden Visa approval is not guaranteed.
For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here.
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